 |
Marianna BernatskayaBlessed of the Roman Catholic Church, martyr.
Date of Birth: 01.01.1888
|
Content:
Blessed Marianna Bernadzka
Marianna Bernadzka (née Witkowska) was a blessed and martyr of the Roman Catholic Church. She was born in 1889 in the village of Lipœsk, Poland, to Piotr and Marianna Witkowska. In 1914, she married Ludwik Bernadzki and they raised six children together.
Life of Sacrifice
Tragedy struck in 1943 when her husband passed away. Marianna Bernadzka moved in with her son, Stanislaw, and his pregnant wife, Apolonia. However, their happiness was short-lived. In July 1943, the Gestapo arrested Stanislaw and Apolonia and sentenced them to death by firing squad.
Ultimate Sacrifice
In a selfless act, Marianna Bernadzka pleaded with the authorities to spare her son and daughter-in-law, offering her own life in their place. Her request was granted, and on July 13, 1943, she was executed along with 49 other residents of Lipœsk.
Beatification and Legacy
Marianna Bernadzka's heroic sacrifice was recognized by the Catholic Church. On June 13, 1999, she was beatified by Pope John Paul II, along with other Polish martyrs of World War II. Her feast day is celebrated on June 12. Marianna Bernadzka is remembered as a symbol of love, sacrifice, and the transformative power of faith.
